Jesus S. Garcia Jr., known to many as “Chuy La Vívora,” entered eternal rest on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at his daughter’s residence in Premont, Texas, at the age of 89. He was born on December 25, 1936, in Falfurrias, Texas, to Jesus Garcia and Elvira Saenz Garcia.
In 1960, Jesus proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class and was stationed in Korea. He was honorably discharged in 1962 as part of the U.S. Army Pacific and continued his service in the Army Reserves until 1966.
Upon returning home, Jesus worked for many years as a diesel mechanic and land clearer. He loved working on tractors, heavy equipment, and vehicles, and especially enjoyed ranch life and operating heavy-duty machinery. He took pride in tending to his animals, his horses, lambs, and emus, and truly loved life on the ranch. Jesus was known as someone you didn’t mess with; he did not tolerate wrongdoing.
Jesus will always be remembered for being a true jokester. Jokes and pranks were his favorite, and laughing until he cried was simply normal for him. He was also a devoted and present grandfather who deeply loved his grandchildren. He made sure they always had snacks waiting for them after school, especially ice cream, Lunchables, and Sprite.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Monica Marie Garcia Saenz; two brothers, Rolando Garcia and Hector Garcia; and his sister, Gloria Almaraz.
He is survived by his daughter, Nakita Nicole Tijerina of Premont; his brother, Noel Garcia of Falfurrias; his sister, Diana Cavazos of Austin, Texas; seven grandchildren, Sergio Tijerina, Diego Tijerina, Sofia Tijerina, Anela Tijerina, Christopher Tijerina, Deandra Saenz, and Haleigh Saenz; one great-grandson, Sergio Ramon Tijerina Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Funeraria Del Angel Howard-Williams in Falfurrias, Texas, with a Rosary to be prayed at 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Falfurrias. Burial with military honors will take place at a later date and will be announced.
